Derek Watts, South Africa's Legendary Anchor and Veteran Journalist, Passes Away at 74
On Tuesday morning, South Africa lost one of its most respected journalists, Derek Watts, who passed away after a brave battle with cancer. His former Carte Blanche cohost, Ruda Landman, confirmed the news to News24. Derek Watts' death has left an indelible mark on the country's media landscape as he was widely regarded as a legendary anchor and a veteran journalist.
On Tuesday morning, South Africa lost one of its most respected journalists, Derek Watts, who passed away after a brave battle with cancer. His former Carte Blanche co-host, Ruda Landman, confirmed the news to News24. Derek Watts’ death has left an indelible mark on the country’s media landscape as he was widely regarded as a legendary anchor and a veteran journalist.
A Career of Excellence
Derek Watts started his career in journalism at the age of 25, and over the next three decades, he became a familiar face on television. He was a part of Carte Blanche from the beginning and won numerous awards for his exceptional work in investigative journalism.
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Battling Cancer
In 2022, Derek Watts discovered a lump under his arm, but he delayed going to the doctor. It was only after his wife, Belinda, insisted that he sought medical attention, which led to the diagnosis of skin cancer that had metastasized to his lungs. The lump could not be surgically removed due to its proximity to nerves, and Watts began a treatment regimen that included immunotherapy.
In June 2023, Derek announced that he would be stepping back from Carte Blanche to focus on his health. Two months after his announcement, he bid farewell to his remarkable 35-year tenure at Carte Blanche, indicating that he would not be returning.
A Legacy to Remember
Derek Watts passed away in the hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. His daughter confirmed the news to Netwerk 24 and shared her father’s appreciation for his viewers and love for his job. Social media has been flooded with tribute messages from fans, fellow journalists, and television networks like M-Net, who have expressed their condolences and celebrated his incredible legacy.
A Legacy of Truth and Justice
Derek Watts’ passing serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of investigative journalism and the impact it can have on society. His unwavering commitment to the pursuit of truth and justice will forever be remembered and cherished by his viewers, colleagues, and fellow South Africans.
As the nation grieves the loss of this esteemed journalist, it is essential to remember the vital role that individuals like Derek Watts play in holding power to account and raising awareness about crucial issues. His dedication, compassion, and fearlessness have set the bar high for future generations of journalists, who must carry the torch and continue the fight for truth, justice, and accountability in his memory.
Amanda Wilson is a Cape Town-born journalist who covers the city’s evolving food scene for national and international outlets, tracing stories from Bo-Kaap spice shops to Khayelitsha micro-breweries. Raised on her grandmother’s Karoo lamb potjie and weekend hikes up Lion’s Head, she brings equal parts palate and pride to every assignment. Colleagues know her for the quiet warmth that turns interviews into friendships and fact-checks into shared laughter.
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